European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Air Liquide Opens Molybdenum Plant in South Korea for Semiconductors

At a glance
  • The plant in South Korea is the largest molybdenum manufacturing facility globally.
  • Subleem™ offers ultra-high purity molybdenum molecules and proprietary distribution systems.
  • Air Liquide's Japan unit has been operational since 2023, with a U.S. plant opening by 2025.
  • Molybdenum is emerging as a replacement for tungsten in semiconductor manufacturing.
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New Molybdenum Plant in South Korea

Air Liquide has launched a new molybdenum manufacturing plant in Hwaseong, South Korea, marking it as the largest facility of its kind globally. This plant will supply advanced materials to semiconductor customers, focusing on the Subleem™ offer, which includes ultra-high purity molybdenum molecules and proprietary distribution systems.

Shift in Semiconductor Materials

The Subleem™ offer was developed in collaboration with semiconductor chip manufacturers to support the industry's transition from tungsten to molybdenum. This shift is crucial for producing next-generation memory and logic chips, particularly for AI applications.

Global Expansion Plans

In addition to the South Korean plant, Air Liquide operates a production unit in Japan since 2023 and plans to open another facility in the United States by the end of 2025. These expansions aim to meet the growing demand for molybdenum in semiconductor manufacturing.

Strategic Industry Positioning

Air Liquide's investment in molybdenum manufacturing underscores its commitment to supporting the semiconductor industry's evolving needs. By rapidly mastering high-volume production and distribution, the company aims to provide unique solutions that enhance the capabilities of semiconductor manufacturers.

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